Ramsar Sites in India Reach 103

Introduction

India has taken several steps to protect these vital ecosystems through national conservation programmes and international cooperation. One of the most important developments in this direction is the expansion of India’s Ramsar network.

As of October 2026, India has 103 Ramsar Sites, following the addition of Sukhna Wetland in Chandigarh and Sauj Jheel in Uttar Pradesh. These sites represent the country’s rich wetland diversity and strengthen efforts towards biodiversity conservation, water security and climate resilience.

What Are Ramsar Sites?

Ramsar Sites are wetlands recognised as Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention. They are designated because of their ecological, botanical, zoological, limnological or hydrological significance.

In simple words, a Ramsar Site is a wetland that has been internationally recognised for its importance to nature and the environment.

These wetlands may include lakes, marshes, floodplains, mangroves, peatlands, coastal wetlands and certain human-made water bodies. They provide habitats for fish, birds, aquatic plants and other wildlife.

However, Ramsar designation does not mean that every human activity at a site is automatically prohibited. The central objective is to maintain the wetland’s ecological character and promote its conservation and wise use.

What is the Ramsar Convention?

• The Ramsar Convention is an international treaty adopted in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran. It entered into force in 1975 and aims to promote wetland conservation and the wise use of wetland resources.
• India became a Contracting Party to the Convention in 1982.
• As of October 2026, the Convention has 172 Contracting Parties and more than 2,536 Ramsar Sites worldwide, according to the supplied source material.
• The Convention encourages countries to identify wetlands of international importance, develop management plans, monitor ecological changes and cooperate on shared wetlands and migratory species.

Ramsar Sites in India 2026

India’s Ramsar network has expanded significantly over the years. According to the supplied October 2026 update, the country now has 103 Ramsar Sites covering more than 13.87 lakh hectares across 28 States and Union Territories.

The latest additions are:

• Sukhna Wetland: Located in Chandigarh.
• Sauj Jheel: Located in Uttar Pradesh.

The expansion reflects growing recognition of wetlands as essential natural assets. However, the number of designated sites alone cannot determine conservation success. Their long-term protection also depends on effective management, pollution control, habitat restoration and community participation.

Important Ramsar Sites in India: Key Facts

Growth of Ramsar Sites in India

India’s wetland conservation efforts have expanded considerably over the past decade. The supplied material reports that the number of Ramsar Sites increased from 26 in 2014 to 103 in October 2026.

This growth demonstrates a wider effort to recognise wetlands that are important for biodiversity, water management and local livelihoods.

The increase in designation can help improve awareness, encourage scientific assessments and strengthen conservation planning. Nevertheless, listing a wetland is only one step. Effective implementation, adequate funding and regular monitoring are necessary to protect the ecosystem over time.

India's First Ramsar Sites

India’s first Ramsar Sites were designated in 1981.

1. Chilika Lake, Odisha

Chilika Lake is a major brackish-water lagoon on the eastern coast of India. It is important for fisheries, migratory birds and aquatic biodiversity.

According to the supplied material, Chilika supports approximately 118 fish species and provides important habitat for migratory birds.

Its restoration is an important example of wetland management. Chilika was removed from the Montreux Record in 2002 following improvements in its ecological condition. The Chilika Development Authority subsequently received the Ramsar Wetland Conservation Award.

This example shows that targeted conservation and restoration can help address ecological degradation.

2. Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan

Keoladeo National Park is a well-known wetland ecosystem that supports resident and migratory birds. Its importance lies in its bird diversity, habitat value and role in wetland conservation.

It is also significant for competitive examinations because it was among India’s first Ramsar Sites, designated in 1981.

Which State Has the Highest Number of Ramsar Sites?

• Tamil Nadu has the highest number of Ramsar Sites in India, with 20 sites according to the October 2026 source material. Uttar Pradesh follows with 14.
• This is an important fact for general awareness and environment-related competitive examination questions.
• The distribution of Ramsar Sites across states reflects differences in wetland ecosystems, biodiversity, geography and conservation priorities. Wetlands occur in coastal regions, river basins, inland plains, mountainous areas and urban landscapes.
• Candidates should remember both the leading state and the number of sites reported in the relevant current affairs update.

Which Is the Largest Ramsar Site in India?

• The Sundarban Wetland in West Bengal is identified in the supplied material as India’s largest Ramsar Site, covering approximately 4.23 lakh hectares.
• The Sundarbans form part of a major mangrove ecosystem associated with the Ganga-Brahmaputra-Meghna delta. Mangroves are particularly important because they provide habitat for wildlife, support fisheries and help reduce the impact of coastal hazards.
• The supplied material also notes that the Sundarban Wetland holds more than 60% of India’s mangrove area.

Why Are the Sundarbans Important?

The Sundarbans provide several ecological and socioeconomic benefits:

• They help protect coastal settlements against storm surges and erosion.
• They provide habitat for diverse wildlife, including tigers.
• They support fisheries and other local livelihoods.
• They help store carbon in mangrove vegetation and associated soils.
• They contribute to ecological stability in a climate-sensitive coastal region.

The Sundarbans demonstrate how wetland conservation can support biodiversity, disaster risk reduction and community welfare at the same time.

What Are the Main Features of the Ramsar Convention?

The Ramsar Convention is built around three major pillars.

1. Wise Use of Wetlands

• Wise use means maintaining the ecological character of wetlands through ecosystem-based management and sustainable use.
• It does not necessarily mean that all economic activity must stop. Instead, activities should be managed so that they do not undermine the wetland’s ecological functions.
• For example, fishing, tourism and other livelihood activities need to be compatible with the long-term health of the ecosystem.

2. Designation of Ramsar Sites

• Countries identify suitable wetlands and designate them as Wetlands of International Importance.
• Designation recognises a wetland’s ecological value and encourages appropriate management, monitoring and conservation planning.

3. International Cooperation

• Wetlands and their ecological systems often extend across political boundaries. Migratory birds also travel between countries.
• The Convention therefore promotes cooperation on transboundary wetlands, shared water systems, scientific research and the conservation of migratory species.

Ramsar Criteria: How Are Wetlands Selected?

The Ramsar Convention provides nine criteria for identifying wetlands of international importance. These criteria cover wetland types, threatened species, biodiversity, waterbirds, fish and other wetland-dependent animals.

Group A: Representative, Rare or Unique Wetland Types

Criterion 1: A wetland may qualify if it contains a representative, rare or unique example of a natural or near-natural wetland type in the relevant biogeographic region.

Group B: Sites Important for Biological Diversity

This group includes criteria related to species, ecological communities, waterbirds, fish and other animals.

Why Are Ramsar Criteria Important?

The criteria help countries identify wetlands that have exceptional ecological value. They also provide a common international framework for evaluating sites.

For examination purposes, remember the numerical thresholds:

• Criterion 5: 20,000 or more waterbirds.
• Criterion 6: 1% of a waterbird species’ or subspecies’ population.
• Criterion 9: 1% of a wetland-dependent non-avian animal species’ or subspecies’ population.

These numerical details are useful for objective questions.

How Are Ramsar Sites Designated in India?

The designation process involves coordination between the concerned State or Union Territory administration and the Central Government.

In general, the process includes the following steps:

1. Identification: A State Government or Union Territory Administration identifies a wetland that may meet the Ramsar criteria.
2. Scientific assessment: The wetland’s ecological features, biodiversity and international importance are assessed.
3. Preparation of the proposal: Relevant information is compiled for the nomination.
4. Central coordination: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change coordinates the process.
5. Submission to the Ramsar Secretariat: The nomination is submitted through the appropriate national process.
6. Management and monitoring: Following designation, the wetland’s ecological character must be maintained and monitored.

Designation should be supported by an appropriate management framework. Effective conservation also requires coordination among government agencies, researchers, local communities and other stakeholders.

Major Government Initiatives for Wetland Conservation in India

India has introduced several initiatives to strengthen wetland protection, restore degraded ecosystems and encourage public participation.

1. Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017

• These rules were notified under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
• They provide a framework for the conservation and management of notified wetlands. State and Union Territory Wetlands Authorities have an important role in identifying, protecting and managing wetlands.
• The rules address harmful activities such as encroachment, solid-waste dumping and the discharge of untreated effluents into notified wetlands, subject to the applicable legal provisions.
• Why it matters: The rules provide a domestic regulatory framework for wetland conservation.

2. National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCA)

• The National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems is a centrally sponsored scheme that supports the conservation and management of lakes and wetlands.
• The revised NPCA Guidelines, 2024, emphasise scientific, integrated and sustainable management.
• Such an approach recognises that wetlands cannot be protected effectively by treating water quality, biodiversity and surrounding land use as separate issues.

3. Amrit Dharohar

• Amrit Dharohar focuses on strengthening the conservation value of Ramsar Sites through measures related to species protection, habitat conservation, nature tourism, livelihood development and wetland carbon assessment.
• The supplied material reports that flora and fauna inventories have been undertaken for 75 Ramsar Sites and carbon-stock assessments have been conducted at 39 sites.
• These activities help improve the scientific understanding of wetlands and their role in biodiversity conservation and climate mitigation.

4. Mission Sahbhagita

• Mission Sahbhagita promotes community participation in wetland conservation.
• Local communities often possess detailed knowledge about seasonal water levels, fishing patterns, wetland plants and wildlife. Involving them in conservation planning can improve awareness and encourage long-term stewardship.

5. Save Wetlands Campaign

• The Save Wetlands Campaign encourages citizens to participate in wetland mapping, awareness activities and conservation initiatives.
• According to the supplied material, more than 20 lakh volunteers have helped map over 1.7 lakh wetlands.
• Community participation can be particularly valuable for identifying local threats, reporting pollution and promoting responsible use of wetland resources.

6. MISHTI

• The Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes (MISHTI) focuses on mangrove restoration and the strengthening of coastal resilience.
• The supplied material states that the initiative targets restoration of 540 square kilometres of mangroves across nine States and four Union Territories.
• Mangrove ecosystems provide habitat for wildlife, support fisheries, store carbon and help protect shorelines against erosion and coastal hazards.

7. Wetlands of India Portal

• The Wetlands of India Portal was launched in 2021. It serves as a digital repository of information about wetlands, conservation programmes, research and training resources.
• Digital information systems can support research, public awareness and evidence-based management.

What Is Wetland City Accreditation?

• Wetland conservation is not limited to rural landscapes and protected natural areas. Urban wetlands also play an important role in water management, biodiversity and climate resilience.
• The Wetland City Accreditation initiative recognises cities that demonstrate efforts to conserve urban and peri-urban wetlands.
• According to the supplied material, Indore in Madhya Pradesh and Udaipur in Rajasthan became India’s first Ramsar-accredited Wetland Cities in January 2025.
• Urban wetlands may include lakes, marshes, ponds and other water bodies that help absorb rainfall, support biodiversity and improve the urban environment.
• However, urban wetland conservation requires effective planning, control of sewage discharge, prevention of encroachment and the integration of wetlands into city development policies.

What Is the Montreux Record?

The Montreux Record is a register of Ramsar Sites where changes in ecological character have occurred, are occurring or are likely to occur because of technological developments, pollution or other forms of human interference.

Its main purpose is to identify sites that require priority conservation attention.

Why Is the Montreux Record Important?

• The record helps draw attention to wetlands facing serious ecological challenges. It can encourage monitoring, management interventions and the allocation of resources for restoration.
• A site may be removed from the record when successful remedial measures have been documented or the threat of ecological change no longer exists, following the applicable process.

Chilika Lake: An Example of Restoration

• Chilika Lake was removed from the Montreux Record in 2002 following improvements in its ecological condition.
• Its restoration experience highlights the importance of scientific management, monitoring and coordinated conservation action.

Exam distinction: The Ramsar List recognises wetlands of international importance, whereas the Montreux Record identifies Ramsar Sites facing or likely to face adverse changes in ecological character.

Ecological and Socioeconomic Importance of Ramsar Sites

Wetlands are not simply water bodies. They are dynamic ecosystems that connect land, water, plants, animals and human communities.

Their importance can be understood through the following dimensions.

1. Biodiversity Conservation

• Wetlands provide feeding, breeding and migratory habitats for numerous species, including waterbirds, fish and aquatic mammals.
• They also support plant communities and ecological processes that may be absent from surrounding landscapes.
• Chilika Lake, for example, is important for fish diversity and migratory bird habitats.

2. Climate Change Mitigation and Resilience

• Wetlands can store carbon, particularly in organic soils and mangrove ecosystems. Protecting these carbon stores can contribute to climate mitigation.
• Wetlands also help communities adapt to climate change by reducing certain flood risks, moderating coastal hazards and maintaining habitats during changing environmental conditions.
• The Sundarbans illustrate how mangroves can act as natural buffers against storm surges and saltwater intrusion.

3. Water Security

• Wetlands contribute to water storage, groundwater recharge in suitable settings, sediment retention and the natural purification of water.
• They can also help regulate water flows and reduce the impact of some flooding events.
• However, these benefits depend on the wetland’s physical condition, hydrology and surrounding land use. Degraded or polluted wetlands may lose important ecological functions.

4. Livelihood Security

• Wetlands support fisheries, agriculture, tourism and traditional occupations. Many communities depend on wetland resources for food, income and cultural practices.
• Conservation programmes should therefore consider both ecological protection and the needs of people who rely on wetlands.
• Sustainable resource use can help balance biodiversity protection with local economic security.

5. Wastewater Treatment

• Some wetland systems can help treat wastewater through natural biological and physical processes.
• The East Kolkata Wetlands are a notable example. The supplied material describes approximately 4,000 hectares of fish ponds associated with natural wastewater treatment and local fisheries.
• This example demonstrates how ecological systems can provide services that benefit both the environment and the economy.

6. Protection of Threatened Species

• Wetland protection can support threatened wildlife by preserving feeding grounds, breeding areas and migration routes.
• The Beas Conservation Reserve in Punjab is highlighted in the supplied material for supporting India’s only known population of the Indus River dolphin.
• Protecting the wider river and wetland ecosystem is important because species survival depends on water quality, food availability, connectivity and suitable habitat.

7. Community Participation

• Local communities can play a major role in wetland conservation by monitoring ecological changes, sharing traditional knowledge and participating in restoration activities.
• Khichan Wetland in Rajasthan, for example, supports large numbers of wintering demoiselle cranes. Community involvement in protecting the birds demonstrates how local stewardship can contribute to conservation.

8. International Cooperation

• Wetlands may support species that migrate across national boundaries, and some wetland systems are connected to transboundary rivers.
• Ramsar designation provides a framework for sharing scientific expertise, conservation standards and management experience.
• International cooperation is particularly valuable when threats extend beyond the administrative boundaries of a single state or country.

Major Challenges Facing Wetlands in India

Despite the growth of India’s Ramsar network, several threats continue to affect wetlands.

Urbanisation and Encroachment

• The expansion of cities and infrastructure can reduce wetland areas, block natural drainage and disrupt the flow of water.
• Encroachment may also increase the risk of urban flooding by reducing the landscape’s capacity to retain excess rainfall.

Water Pollution

• Untreated sewage, industrial effluents, agricultural runoff and solid waste can damage water quality.
• Pollution can harm fish, aquatic plants and birds while reducing the wetland’s ability to provide clean water and other ecosystem services.

Changes in Natural Hydrology

• Dams, water diversion, drainage and excessive extraction can change the timing and volume of water entering a wetland.
• Such changes may affect breeding cycles, fish populations, vegetation and migratory birds.

Invasive Alien Species

• Invasive species can compete with native plants and animals, change habitat structure and alter ecological processes.
• Their management requires site-specific assessment and sustained monitoring.

Climate Change

• Changing rainfall patterns, droughts, rising temperatures and coastal hazards can place additional pressure on wetlands.
• Coastal wetlands may face saltwater intrusion and sea-level-related risks, while inland wetlands may experience changing water availability.

Weak Implementation and Monitoring

• Designation alone cannot guarantee effective protection. Conservation also depends on sufficient funding, scientific data, institutional coordination and enforcement of applicable rules.
• Integrated management plans should address the wetland itself as well as its catchment, drainage channels and surrounding land uses.

How Can India Strengthen Wetland Conservation?

India can improve wetland protection by moving beyond designation and focusing on long-term ecological outcomes.

• First, strengthen scientific monitoring. Regular assessments of water quality, biodiversity, water levels and habitat condition can help identify problems before they become irreversible.
• Second, control pollution at its source. Sewage treatment, better solid-waste management and enforcement against harmful discharges are essential for maintaining wetland health.
• Third, prevent encroachment. Wetlands should be integrated into land-use planning, urban development plans and disaster risk reduction strategies.
• Fourth, promote community-led conservation. Local people should have meaningful opportunities to participate in planning, monitoring and livelihood programmes.
• Fifth, improve coordination between institutions. Wetland management often involves several government departments. Clear responsibilities and coordinated action can improve implementation.
• Sixth, link conservation with sustainable livelihoods. Responsible tourism, sustainable fisheries and appropriate nature-based economic activities can create incentives for long-term protection.
• Finally, evaluate outcomes, not just numbers. The effectiveness of conservation should be assessed through improvements in water quality, biodiversity, habitat condition and community well-being.

Conclusion

India’s expansion to 103 Ramsar Sites in October 2026 marks an important development in the country’s wetland conservation journey. The addition of Sukhna Wetland and Sauj Jheel further highlights the ecological importance of wetlands across different geographical settings.

Ramsar Sites support biodiversity, water security, climate resilience and the livelihoods of local communities. They also demonstrate how environmental conservation is connected to sustainable development and disaster risk reduction.

However, international recognition must be accompanied by effective management, pollution control, scientific monitoring and community participation. The long-term success of India’s wetland conservation efforts will depend on protecting the ecological character of these sites while ensuring that the people who depend on them can continue to benefit sustainably.

For India, wetlands should not be viewed as unused land waiting for development. They are essential natural infrastructure that deserves protection for present and future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many Ramsar Sites are there in India in 2026?

India has 103 Ramsar Sites as of October 2026, according to the supplied current affairs material.

2. Which are the latest Ramsar Sites added in India in October 2026?

Sukhna Wetland in Chandigarh and Sauj Jheel in Uttar Pradesh are identified as the latest additions in the supplied material.

3. Which Indian state has the highest number of Ramsar Sites?

Tamil Nadu has the highest number, with 20 Ramsar Sites, followed by Uttar Pradesh with 14, according to the October 2026 figures.

4. Which were India’s first Ramsar Sites?

Chilika Lake in Odisha and Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan were India’s first Ramsar Sites, designated in 1981.

5. Which is the largest Ramsar Site in India?

Sundarban Wetland in West Bengal is identified as India’s largest Ramsar Site, covering approximately 4.23 lakh hectares.

6. When did India join the Ramsar Convention?

India became a Contracting Party to the Ramsar Convention in 1982.

7. What is the Montreux Record?

The Montreux Record is a register of Ramsar Sites where changes in ecological character have occurred, are occurring or are likely to occur and that require priority conservation attention.

8. What is the main objective of the Ramsar Convention?

Its primary objective is to promote wetland conservation and the wise use of wetlands through national action and international cooperation.

9. What are the three pillars of the Ramsar Convention?

The three pillars are wise use of wetlands, designation and effective management of Wetlands of International Importance, and international cooperation.

10. Which Indian cities received Wetland City Accreditation?

Indore in Madhya Pradesh and Udaipur in Rajasthan are identified in the supplied material as India’s first Ramsar-accredited Wetland Cities in January 2025.